The Johnson family has been fishing commercially on Lake Michigan since the 30’s. They’ve been in the retail seafood business since 1951, and I’m sure happy about that.

Located on US Highway 14, in Des Plaines, IL (NW suburban Chicago), the combination market/cafe is open seven days from 9 AM.

There used to be a restaurant in my hometown whose slogan was “If it swims, we have it,” and while it may not have been precisely true about that place, it sure is apt here. Freshwater and saltwater fish, shellfish, mollusks, and accompaniments are all available, to take home and prepare yourself, or to have the little swimming things cooked in-house and served to you as an entree or snack.

I had a hankering for catfish and me mate was craving a genuine New England style lobster roll. We both scored, the cat came with fries and slaw, the toasted roll with chips. Both were excellent in terms of quality, preparation and value.

It’s a bit of a hike for me, or I’d go more often, and I’d certainly stop by on occasion to pick up some fish or shrimp to take home.

If you’re visiting in the area, Don’s is easy to get to by auto, or on the UP-NW Metra train from downtown Chicago, it’s less than 30 minutes and then a four-minute walk from the Des Plaines station.

I’ve enclosed their current menu, and a real old-timey menu, below. Photos are mine, except top left hand of page is from their website.